Travel Writing

\*\*NOTE: This meetup currently lacks a regular host. (The current hosts are volunteers for online organizational purposes; they show up in person occasionally.) If you arrive and there is no host, don’t worry. Whoever is the longest-running member (or whoever wants to) can set the timer for the writing session. In this way, the meetup is self-sustaining, and not dependent on any one person. Thanks for your understanding.\*\* Join us for an hour of quiet writing, followed by an hour of (optional) socializing. \*\*SILENT WRITING BEGINS AT 1:15 PM. IF YOU'RE LATE, WELCOME! WE WILL IGNORE YOU (BECAUSE WE'RE BUSY WRITING) UNTIL 2:15 PM.\*\* This meetup is open to everyone, whether you’re writing a novel, blog, class paper, or journal entry—or something completely different. Anyone interested is welcome to attend :) LOCATION: 5 Elements Cafe, basement level RSVP: Please be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. We recommend coming down to the basement to grab a spot before you buy anything, just in case. SCHEDULE: 1:00 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chill/leave. Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

Join us for an unforgettable Travel Talk with Gwladys Ilfix (@voyagewithbliss) as we explore: Discover the rich traditions, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Vietnam. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply curious, this is your chance to explore Vietnam like never before! 📅 Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026 🕑 Time: 2:00 PM 📍 Location: Expedia Cruises, 2035 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, ON 🎤 Speaker: Glwadys Ilfix, IG @VoyageWithBliss ✅ Free admission; RSVP required. #TravelTalk #VietnamUnveiled #VoyageWithBliss #ExpediaCruises #TravelWithGwladys #EastYorkEvents #ECeastyork #travel ✅ Reserve your spot today

Come join us at the lovely, well-lit, and cozy Theatre Centre Cafe for an hour and a half of silent writing (on whatever writing projects you will)! After silent writing is done, feel free to stay and chat or go as you please. If you are late you are welcome to join us (quietly and not disruptively). Please note this is a casual event, and we will NOT be critiquing each other’s work. **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: #TheTheatreCentre (no password, open access) Travel / Parking info: There is paid street parking as well as Green P underground parking located at 45 Abell St (2 mins walk from the venue) . Venue Guidelines: Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.

Join us for a winter walk through some great book stores in Toronto. We will meet in near the [Dufferin Subway Station](https://maps.app.goo.gl/8qfK6SXowHoRRfRc6) (north east end of the Bloor St. W and Dufferin St intersection). Then we will visit the following book stores by walking to them through the (thawing) winter streets 1. [The Monkey's Paw](https://maps.app.goo.gl/xuPmjbCQrsQi4wS28) 2. [Doug Miller Books](https://maps.app.goo.gl/gcwYFUixHrEceehS7) 3. [BMV Books](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ETHNifRbmGcgRyrZ7) 4. [Balfour Books](https://maps.app.goo.gl/etWMdx8LwEGtv8Lr8) 5. [Re: Reading Used Books](https://maps.app.goo.gl/qCaXFuFU7L4NHWcJ7) The entire route can be found [here](https://maps.app.goo.gl/vjVUAfjCJjhep2ad7) You can get coffee in one of these shops or somewhere along the route (Click the links above for google maps location) Approx distance is 10 km **Assumption of Preparedness:** You agree to come prepared for the event with clothing, gloves, cap, and shoes as appropriate for the weather and conditions as prevalent on the day of the event. It is also assumed that if you need to leave the event midway through the event, then you will inform the organizer before doing so.

Join us for a fun afternoon checking out the ROM, including the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibit which is always cool to see. More info can be found here https://www.rom.on.ca/whats-on/exhibitions/wildlife-photographer-year-2025 You can purchase tickets here https://tickets.rom.on.ca/en/shop Use GETOUTSHOOTROM promo code for 15% OFF - total price after is $30. Hope to see you at the ROM! Paul

**It's ALIVE!** This interactive workshop invites writers to **step away from the page** and into a **hands-on creative process** using playdough to design original monsters, aliens, or creatures. Participants will **sculpt their own creations**, then collaborate with others by responding to and building on each other’s designs. The workshop also includes **writing a brief history or micro-short story for each creation** to flesh out its personality, culture, and purpose. By creating characters in a **visual and tactile medium**, writers can unlock new ideas, deepen believability, and discover details they might not find through writing alone. **Suggested donation of $5 to cover the cost of workshop supplies**

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/wildlands-winter-2026).** ***As January slogs on, getting outside with others is the best way to enjoy winter.*** This is one of Wilderness Union's favourite hikes, located in the Wilderness Section of the Ganaraska Hiking Trail and just over 2 hours outside of Toronto. You'll feel like you're deep in the wilderness and far away from the hustle of the city. Our route takes you into classic Canadian Shield territory with cut granite faces, beautiful forests that open onto pristine frozen lakes and more beaver habitats than you've ever seen before. What you can expect on this hike: * Truly wild trails * River crossings via beaver dams * An epic lakeside lunch lookout * Possible wildlife spotting Our end point is a gorgeous lake where we'll stop for a quick lunch before continuing on and ensuring we stay nice and warm. This is a 10km out-and-back hike for people with moderate to good physical fitness. Remember that snow can also make things more challenging. **Depending on snow levels we may be required to use snowshoes or ice spikes. We have a limited quantity available that you can grab at check-out. Ice spikes are free to borrow and snow shoes can be rented for a small fee.** **Highlights** **Stunning Lakes:** A never ending cascade of beautiful lakes formed by glacial movements. **Beaver Dam Crossing:** The incredible engineering of our furry friends will help us safely traverse multiple water crossings. **Pristine Wilderness:** Breath deeply and take in the beautiful, quiet power of this hidden spot. **Event cost** ***Starting from $50+HST - optional transport available!*** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/wildlands-winter-2026)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

**#Note: As of Aug 17, 2025,** **we will be moving to Yonge Sheppard Centre** due to the closing of our prior venue Whole Foods. Please read the new location details. **Coworking for writers in your area!** Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com) **Travel / Parking info:** Public Transit: 1. Take the TTC subway to Sheppard-Yonge Station. 2. Use the Yonge St. Sheppard Ave exit **Driving & Parking:** Parking Entrance to Yonge Sheppard Centre is located on Greenfield Avenue and Doris Avenue. Accessible parking is available on P1, P3 and Concourse. Be sure to check for parking limits or fees. **Location:** We gather around the tables in the food court near Jimmy the Greek. If you spot a group of people with laptops out, that’s probably us! **RSVP:** Please do RSVP. But be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. **SCHEDULE:** 12:45 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in -- come in early if you want to get lunch. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about red-nosed reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Explorer Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the Ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** The story of historic Little India is a true Toronto success story, a unique look at a neighbourhood and the people who call it home. But the story is not always a happy one. Like all other areas in Toronto, Little India started out as a purely English - Anglican area and was repeatedly changed as other immigrants opted to leave the security of the downtown core for outer areas. With the opening of the Naaz theatre in 1972, the community that became Little India started to take shape, but in Toronto the forces that developed communities were different in that part of the city sandwiched between Leslieville to the south, and Greektown to the north. With a strictly Anglo-Saxon pro-British community entrenched for over 100 years, now changing to include south Asians, the area was seen as a rather depressed area, or an area in transition, and violence was an unfortunate part of life. Racial tensions increased dramatically with the influx of south Asians. But by the 1980s and 1990s the district had found its feet, and Little India was a popular Toronto district and tourist attraction, with visitors pouring in from around the world to partake of the richness. A true cultural enclave in Toronto! A fascinating history and a fascinating community awaits! This tour has been revised a few times to add more historic information to the walk, it has been revised once again for 2026 with new landmarks and stories attached. Should be a fascinating walk! This walk is for all fitness levels. The meeting place for our walking adventure is on the southwest corner of Greenwood Avenue and Gerrard Street East! This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person! \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the Ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

❄️🚶‍♀️ **EXPLORATION WALK: YORKVILLE & U OF T** – **6 KM** 🎓🏙️ **Because winter is temporary… but missing this walk is forever.** “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” So layer up, zip up, and let’s romanticize January like true Torontonians 😌❄️ This walk explores **two parts of the city that started out the same — and then went in completely different directions.** One got glitzier. One stayed timeless. Both are *very* walkable, dramatic, and worth showing up for. \*\*\* \#\#\# THE WALK 🗺️✨ We’ll start and end at **Rosedale Subway Station**, making a glorious winter loop. • **Rosedale Park** 🌳 – quiet, elegant, and shockingly peaceful. • **Yorkville** 💎 – once wealthy, then a hippie coffee-shop haven, and now one of the *richest* neighbourhoods in the city. Full-circle glow-up. • **University of Toronto** 🏛️ – once reserved for Toronto’s elite, now open to everyone. Unlike Yorkville, it’s beautifully **frozen in time**, with historic buildings that haven’t changed much — except for the degrees inside them. • **Bamboo Forest at U of T** 🎋 – we’ll try to sneak a peek if it’s open (because mystery is part of the fun). ☕ **WARM-UP BREAK:** We’ll make a **30-minute stop at Tim Hortons** to thaw our fingers, grab food and drinks, and question why winter feels personal. \*\*\* ⚠️ **IMPORTANT NOTES** • Do **NOT** sign up if you’re not ready to walk in winter ❄️ • This walk happens in **snow, cold, wind, or vibes** • Event will only be cancelled if it hits **-20°C** (because we are sensible, not soft) \*\*\* \#\#\# MEETUP DETAILS 🧤🧣 📍 **Meetup Location:** Outside **Rosedale Subway Station** 👀 **How you’ll spot me:** I’ll be wearing my **MOOSE HAT** (a winter icon) ⏰ **Meetup Time:** 11:00 AM ⏱️ I wait **5 minutes only** — *Early is on time, on time is late* 💰 **Meetup Fee:** $5 (cash 💵 or e-transfer 📲 to \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/)) You can send it before or on the day of the walk.**m** 🏁 **End Point:** **Rosedale Subway Station** \*\*\* 👀 **NOT SURE YOU CAN MAKE IT?** Just show up. Literally. Winter plans are fluid. \*\*\* \#\#\# WHAT TO BRING 🎒 • Water • **Good boots** (non-negotiable) • Gloves & hat • Something warm to drink ☕ • A snack \*\*\* ⏳ **HOW LONG?** About **3 hours**, including our warm-up break. 🚪 **Can you leave early?** Anytime you like — no judgment, only vibes. 📱 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) Get updates, chat with other walkers, and stay in the loop for future events! \*\*\* Mathew is the organizer for this meetup. If you need to contact him, post on the wall or email: 📧 \*\*[torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com**](http://torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) ✨ Cold weather builds character. ✨ Good walks build community. ✨ Missing this? That’s on you. ❄️🔥

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/mono-winter-2026).** **Come explore the unique and subtle beauty of Ontario winter with this iconic hike just over an hour north-west of Toronto.** Steeped in dramatic cliff formations and abundant hardwood forests, this stunning provincial park is loved by nature enthusiasts across Ontario. It is a geological gem shaped by the lumbered movement of ancient glaciers and filled with rich biodiversity. On this hike you can expect: * Boundless maple groves * Sweeping panoramic views * Epic, 30-meter-high rock formations * Unique plant life that thrives in the park’s cool, shaded valleys This is a moderately challenging 8 km hike with a consistent incline and decline. We’ll hike across open fields, through quiet forest, and along cliff edges that reveal incredible views of the surrounding countryside. Our final destination is Jacob’s Ladder, a wooden staircase that winds through a narrow rock corridor and offers an unforgettable finish to the climb. **Depending on snow levels we may be required to use snowshoes or ice spikes. We have a limited quantity available that you can grab at check-out. Ice spikes are free to borrow and snow shoes can be rented for a small fee.** **Note that self drivers will need to [purchase a full day vehicle permit](https://reservations.ontarioparks.com/create-booking/results?resourceLocationId=-2147483472&mapId=-2147483059&searchTabGroupId=4&bookingCategoryId=33&startDate=2023-05-06&endDate=2023-05-07&nights=1&isReserving=true&partySize=1&equipmentCapacity=1&filterData=%7B%7D&searchTime=2023-04-30T16:50:21.954) in advance.** **Highlights** **Dramatic Cliffs:** Wander between towering cliffs and ancient crevices carved by time. This is the geology field trip of your dreams! **Sweeping Panoramas:** From forest canopies to distant hills, you’ll get wide-open views that remind you just how big and beautiful Ontario really is. **Close to Toronto:** Go on an incredible nature hike and get your laundry and groceries done all in the same day. **Event cost** ***Starting from $40+HST - optional transport available!*** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/mono-winter-2026)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Hey Toronto! This is your weekly escape into global cultures. [[Click this WhatsApp Groupchat Link to join ]](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GyoGCkYt392Bi8c9nOP2d4) Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people in their 20s and 30s gather for a mix of language practice, travel stories, and community. Whether you’re new in town or born here, this is where world citizens connect. No judgment, no pressure — just pure, human interaction.

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm the second & fourth Wednesday of every month at Two Dollar Radio Headquarters (HQ). Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens around 6:45pm. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Two Dollar Radio HQ! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! Other customers are welcome at Two Dollar HQ at the time, so please bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **ACCESSIBILITY:** Two Dollar Radio HQ's entrance door on Cline Street is wheelchair accessible, they have two gender-neutral bathrooms that are both wheelchair accessible, and their ordering and table-seating area is as well. Working service dogs are allowed. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Two Dollar Radio HQ does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public street parking on all surrounding streets, on both sides of Parsons Ave. You are also welcome to park in the Columbus Metropolitan Library parking lot across the street (1113 Parsons Ave). Two Dollar Radio HQ has a bike rack on the corner of Cline and Parsons, and the library has bike parking (across Parsons). * **FOOD/BEVERAGE:** Two Dollar Radio HQ is a bar and vegan cafe. Their food is 100% vegan and made from scratch, with love. They also serve a range of wine, beer, and cocktails, as well as coffees and teas. If you're able to, please consider thanking our venue by purchasing something!!

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Java Central Café and Roaster](https://javacentral.coffee/)**!**

Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Sunday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at noon on Sundays. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Sunday!